Conservation Reimagined: How Star Properties Make Sustainability a Luxury Experience

Sustainability has become a central focus in the evolving world of luxury hospitality. Star properties lead the way by seamlessly blending eco-friendly practices with their luxurious offerings, creating a perfect mix of comfort and environmental responsibility. This approach enhances the guest experience and sets a new standard for the industry. 

Efficient water management is a cornerstone of sustainable operations in the luxury hotel space. They have started using the treated sewage treatment plant (STP) water for non-drinking purposes such as cooling towers, irrigation, and flushing toilets. This reduces the demand for freshwater and ensures responsible water usage across the property. This innovative approach to water management shows the hotels' commitment to sustainability without compromising guest comfort.

The Re-energise Linen & Terry Re-Use Programme is another innovative effort to conserve resources. This program encourages guests to participate by reusing linens and towels. This helps the hotels save water and energy while involving guests in their sustainability mission. This programme reduces environmental impact and makes guests active contributors to the hotel’s green initiatives. 

Star Properties are leading the way in efficiently managing energy consumption. Across the country, hotels have made a strong commitment to green energy, with some reporting an impressive 93% reliance on wind energy. This transition not only reduces the carbon footprint but also sets a new standard for renewable energy use, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. Additionally, many star properties have installed advanced online energy and temperature monitoring systems. These systems cover HVAC systems and public areas, allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustments to ensure efficient energy use, waste reduction, and guest comfort. This real-time monitoring capability represents a significant advancement in sustainable hospitality practices. 

In their ongoing efforts to reduce plastic waste, Star Properties have implemented significant initiatives. Firstly, they've replaced single-use plastic bottles with reusable ones in guest rooms and public areas, showcasing their dedication to sustainability while providing guests with an eco-friendly alternative without compromising luxury or convenience. Additionally, many Star Properties have installed water bottling plants on their premises to further reduce plastic waste. These plants supply fresh, filtered water to guest rooms, restaurants, and banquet spaces, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles and ensuring guests have access to fresh water while significantly reducing plastic waste. Moreover, these hotels excel in sustainable food sourcing by offering cage-free eggs, adhering to responsible seafood guidelines, and providing plant-based food options, which constitute 30% of their menu. This commitment to ethical food sourcing enhances the dining experience, promotes a health-conscious and environmentally friendly diet, and supports sustainable agricultural practices. 

Recognising the importance of electric vehicles (EVs), these properties have installed EV chargers for public use. They also offer an EV fleet for guest transportation, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. This initiative supports the growing trend of electric mobility, offering guests convenient and eco-friendly transportation options. 

The commitment to sustainability extends to the decor and stationery used within the hotels. Recyclable handmade arrangements are used in lobbies and meeting spaces instead of natural flowers, reducing waste and preserving natural flora. Additionally, all stationery in guest rooms and meeting spaces is recyclable, further minimising environmental impact.  

Star Properties are now actively engaging guests in global and local sustainability initiatives, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility towards environmental conservation. This inclusive approach ensures everyone plays a part in the hotel's sustainability journey, setting a new standard in luxury hospitality. By integrating innovative and eco-friendly practices, these hotels demonstrate that sustainability and luxury can complement each other, creating an exceptional guest experience. Through their unwavering commitment to conservation, they pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future in hospitality.

Girish Pawan Kumar Agoor

Guest Author Girish Pawan Kumar Agoor is Director of Engineering, Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield